San Francisco airport veteran to return as director
04 December 2024
by Jonathan Andrews
Twenty-five-year aviation expert, Mike Nakornkhet, will lead San Francisco International Airport (SFO) as new director from early 2025.
The Mayor of San Francisco, London Breed, made the appointment ahead of the retirement of current director, Ivar Satero.
“SFO is one of the most dynamic and important airports in our country, and its success is critical to San Francisco’s economic recovery,” said Breed. “Mike has more than 25 years of aviation industry experience and I am confident his vision will help ensure SFO continues to be a leader.”
Nakornkhet currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Denver International Airport (DEN), where he is responsible for the financial operations and a US$12 billion Capital Improvement Plan. Prior to joining the leadership of DEN, Nakornkhet spent 13 years at SFO including eight years as SFO’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Acting Managing Director of Finance.
“I look forward to working with the world-class team at SFO, our partners in the aviation industry, and the community to bring about transformative changes and ensure SFO remains a world-class gateway serving San Francisco,” he said.
Nakornkhet’s appointment follows a comprehensive, nationwide search for the position. Current SFO Director Ivar Satero is expected to retire in early 2025 after more than 40 years of service, including eight as SFO Director. SFO is the 12th largest airport in the United States with an operating budget in excess of US$1.6 billion and a US$11 billion Capital Improvement Plan.
“I’m so pleased to offer Mike my congratulations on his selection as the next SFO Airport Director,” said Ivar Satero, SFO Director. “Mike’s prior significant contributions to SFO along with his success in helping DEN forge a path for the future makes him an outstanding choice. I’m confident that under Mike’s leadership SFO will continue to pursue excellence in caring for our guests and achieve new heights with the support of our amazing SFO team.”
Image: SFO
